Electrohydraulic Normally-Open Ventable Valve Configured to Operate in Pressure Relief Mode when Actuated

ABSTRACT

An example valve includes: (i) a pilot seat member comprising: (a) one or more channels fluidly coupled to a first port of the valve, (b) a pilot seat, and (c) a pilot sleeve portion comprising a pilot chamber and a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion; (ii) a pilot check member disposed in the pilot chamber and subjected to a biasing force of a setting spring disposed in the pilot chamber to seat the pilot check member at the pilot seat; and (iii) a solenoid actuator sleeve slidably accommodated about the exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion of the pilot seat member, wherein the solenoid actuator sleeve includes a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the solenoid actuator sleeve, wherein the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve is fluidly coupled to a second port of the valve.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/133,972, filed on Sep. 18, 2018, and entitled “Electrohydraulic Normally-Open Ventable Valve Configured to Operate in Pressure Relief Mode When Actuated,” the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference as if fully set forth in this description.

BACKGROUND

A relief valve or pressure relief valve (PRV) is a type of safety valve used to control or limit the pressure in a system. Pressure might otherwise build up and can cause equipment failure. The pressure is relieved by allowing the pressurized fluid to flow out of the system to a tank or low pressure fluid reservoir. In some applications, a PRV can be used to build pressure level of fluid up to a particular pressure level to operate a hydraulic system or component.

A PRV is designed or set to open at a predetermined setting pressure to protect other components and other equipment from being subjected to pressures that exceed their design limits. When the setting pressure is exceeded, the PRV becomes or forms the “path of least resistance” as the PRV is forced open and a portion of fluid is diverted to the tank. As the fluid is diverted, the pressure inside the system stops rising. Once the pressure is reduced and reaches the PRV's reseating pressure, the PRV closes.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure describes implementations that relate to an electrohydraulic normally-open ventable valve configured to operate in pressure relief mode when actuated.

In a first example implementation, the present disclosure describes a valve. The valve includes: (i) a pilot seat member comprising: (a) one or more channels fluidly coupled to a first port of the valve, (b) a pilot seat, and (c) a pilot sleeve portion comprising a pilot chamber and a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion; (ii) a pilot check member disposed in the pilot chamber and subjected to a biasing force of a setting spring disposed in the pilot chamber to seat the pilot check member at the pilot seat; and (iii) a solenoid actuator sleeve slidably accommodated about the exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion of the pilot seat member, wherein the solenoid actuator sleeve includes a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the solenoid actuator sleeve, wherein the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve is fluidly coupled to a second port of the valve. When the valve is unactuated, the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve is fluidly coupled to the one or more channels of the pilot seat member to form a first pilot flow path from the first port to the second port, thereby causing a piston to move and open a main flow path from the first port to the second port. When the valve is actuated, the solenoid actuator sleeve moves axially, thereby: (i) blocking the first pilot flow path, (ii) causing the piston to block the main flow path from the first port to the second port, and (iii) aligning the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve with the cross-hole of the pilot sleeve portion, such that when pressure level of fluid at the first port overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring on the pilot check member, the pilot check member is unseated and a second pilot flow path is formed from the first port to the second port, thereby causing the piston to move axially and open the main flow path from the first port to the second port.

In a second example implementation, the present disclosure describes a hydraulic system including a source of fluid; a reservoir; and a ventable pressure relief valve having a first port fluidly coupled to the source of fluid, and a second port fluidly coupled to the reservoir. The ventable pressure relief valve comprises: (i) a pilot seat member comprising: (a) one or more channels fluidly coupled to the first port, (b) a pilot seat, and (c) a pilot sleeve portion comprising a pilot chamber and a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion; (ii) a pilot check member disposed in the pilot chamber and subjected to a biasing force of a setting spring disposed in the pilot chamber to seat the pilot check member at the pilot seat; and (iii) a solenoid actuator sleeve slidably accommodated about the exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion of the pilot seat member, wherein the solenoid actuator sleeve includes a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the solenoid actuator sleeve, wherein the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve is fluidly coupled to the second port. When the ventable pressure relief valve is unactuated, the ventable pressure relief valve operates in a ventable mode of operation, wherein the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve is fluidly coupled to the one or more channels of the pilot seat member to form a first pilot flow path from the first port to the second port, thereby causing a piston to move and open a main flow path from the first port to the second port. When the ventable pressure relief valve is actuated, the ventable pressure relief valve operates in a pressure relief mode of operation, wherein the solenoid actuator sleeve moves axially, thereby: (i) blocking the first pilot flow path, (ii) causing the piston to block the main flow path from the first port to the second port, and (iii) aligning the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve with the cross-hole of the pilot sleeve portion, such that when pressure level of fluid at the first port overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring on the pilot check member, the pilot check member is unseated and a second pilot flow path is formed from the first port to the second port, thereby causing the piston to move axially and open the main flow path from the first port to the second port.

In a third example implementation, the present disclosure describes a valve. The valve includes: (i) a housing having a longitudinal cylindrical cavity therein and having a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the housing; (ii) a main sleeve disposed, at least partially, in the longitudinal cylindrical cavity of the housing, wherein the main sleeve includes a first port at a distal end of the main sleeve and includes one or more cross-holes disposed on an exterior peripheral surface of the main sleeve, wherein the cross-hole of the housing and the one or more cross-holes of the main sleeve form a second port; (iii) a piston disposed within the main sleeve and configured to be axially movable therein, wherein the piston defines a main chamber therein, and wherein the main chamber is fluidly coupled to the first port via an orifice; (iv) a pilot seat member comprising: (a) one or more channels fluidly coupled to the main chamber, (b) a pilot seat, and (c) a pilot sleeve portion comprising a pilot chamber and a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion; (v) a pilot check member disposed in the pilot chamber and subjected to a biasing force of a setting spring disposed in the pilot chamber to seat the pilot check member at the pilot seat; and (vi) a solenoid actuator sleeve slidably accommodated about the exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion of the pilot seat member, wherein the solenoid actuator sleeve includes a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the solenoid actuator sleeve, wherein the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve is fluidly coupled to the second port. When the valve is unactuated, the solenoid actuator sleeve is in a first position in which the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve is fluidly coupled to the one or more channels of the pilot seat member to form a first pilot flow path from the first port to the second port. When the valve is actuated, the solenoid actuator sleeve moves axially to a second position in which the first pilot flow path is blocked, and the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve is aligned with the cross-hole of the pilot sleeve portion to form a second pilot flow path when pressure level of fluid at the first port overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring on the pilot check member.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, implementations, and features described above, further aspects, implementations, and features will become apparent by reference to the figures and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a valve in a ventable operation mode, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 2 illustrates a three-dimensional perspective view showing an armature coupled to a solenoid actuator sleeve, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a valve in a pressure relief mode of operation, in accordance with another example implementation.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-section side view of a valve having a manual adjustment actuator, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a solenoid tube, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 6 illustrates a hydraulic circuit using the valve shown in FIG. 4, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a hydraulic system, in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method for operating a valve, in accordance with an example implementation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Pressure relief valves are configured to open at a preset pressure and discharge fluid until pressure drops to acceptable levels in a system. In operation, the pressure relief valve can remain normally-closed until pressure upstream reaches a desired setting pressure. The valve can then “crack” open when the setting pressure is reached, and continue to open further, allowing more flow as pressure increases. When upstream pressure falls below the setting pressure, the valve can close again.

In some examples, it may be desirable to have a ventable pressure relief valve that can provide system relief protection with an actuation signal (e.g., with an electrical signal) combined with the ability to “unload” a source of fluid (e.g., a pump) to a tank when unactuated. For example, the valve can operate in a ventable operation mode to unload a pump as long as a speed of an engine or motor driving the pump is below a particular threshold speed. Once the particular threshold speed, the valve can be actuated to switch to a pressure relief mode. In another example, the valve can operate in the ventable operation mode when the temperature of hydraulic oil exceeds a particular temperature threshold, and then actuated to operate in the pressure relief mode when the temperature is reduced to a value below the particular temperature threshold. In other examples, the valve can operate in the ventable operation mode to operate the hydraulic system in a safety mode, and then actuated to switch the valve to the pressure relief mode when the hydraulic system is ready to be operational.

It may also be desirable to have such combined functionality in a compact package that does not involve using several valves, but rather a single valve that combines multiple functionalities, thereby reducing manufacturing cost. Further, having a compact package that performs multiple functionalities reduces system size and weight.

Disclosed herein is a valve configured to operate in a ventable mode to maintain low system pressure until the valve is actuated. Particularly, when the valve is unactuated, the valve forms therein a first pilot flow path that is open, thereby causing the valve to operate in the ventable mode. Upon actuation, the valve is configured to block the first pilot flow path and operate as a relief valve that forms a second pilot flow path configured to allow fluid flow therethrough when a relief setting (i.e., the setting pressure) is reached.

FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a valve 100 in a ventable operation mode, in accordance with an example implementation. The valve 100 may be inserted or screwed into a manifold having ports corresponding to ports of the valve 100 described below, and can thus fluidly coupled the valve 100 to other components of a hydraulic system.

The valve 100 may include a main stage 102, a pilot stage 104, and a solenoid actuator 106. The valve 100 includes a housing 108 that includes a longitudinal cylindrical cavity therein. The longitudinal cylindrical cavity of the housing 108 is configured to house portions of the main stage 102, the pilot stage 104, and the solenoid actuator 106.

The main stage 102 includes a main sleeve 110 received at a distal end of the housing 108, and the main sleeve 110 is coaxial with the housing 108. The valve 100 includes a first port 112 and a second port 114. The first port 112 is defined at a nose or distal end of the main sleeve 110. The second port 114 can include a first set of cross-holes that can be referred to as main flow cross-holes, such as main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B, disposed in a radial array about an exterior surface of the main sleeve 110. The second port 114 can also include a second set of cross-holes that can be referred to as pilot flow cross-holes, such as pilot flow cross-hole 116 disposed in the housing 108.

The main sleeve 110 includes a respective longitudinal cylindrical cavity therein. The valve 100 includes a piston 118 that is disposed, and slidably accommodated, in the longitudinal cylindrical cavity of the main sleeve 110. The term “piston” is used herein to encompass any type of movable element, such as a spool-type movable element or a poppet-type movable element. The piston 118 is shown in the figures as a spool-type movable element; however, it is contemplated that a poppet-type movable element can be used instead. In the case a poppet-type movable element is used, the inner peripheral surface of the main sleeve 110 can form a protrusion that operates as a seat for the poppet-type movable element and reduce leakage through the valve 100.

Further, the term “slidably accommodated” is used throughout herein to indicate that a first component (e.g., the piston 118) is positioned relative to a second component (e.g., the main sleeve 110) with sufficient clearance therebetween, enabling movement of the first component relative to the second component in the proximal and distal directions. As such, the first component (e.g., piston 118) is not stationary, locked, or fixedly disposed in the valve 100, but rather, is allowed to move relative to the second component (e.g., the main sleeve 110).

The piston 118 has a cavity or main chamber 120 therein, and the valve 100 includes a main spring 122 disposed in the main chamber 120 of the piston 118. The valve 100 also includes a ring-shaped member 124 disposed, at least partially, within the piston 118 at a distal end thereof. The ring-shaped member 124 includes a filter 126 and forms therein an orifice 128 that fluidly couples the first port 112 to the main chamber 120.

The valve 100 further includes a pilot seat member 130 fixedly disposed at the proximal end of the main sleeve 110 within the cavity of the housing 108. As shown in FIG. 1, the pilot seat member 130 has a shoulder formed by an exterior peripheral surface of the pilot seat member 130. The shoulder interfaces with the proximal end of the main sleeve 110 and interfaces with a shoulder 131 formed as a protrusion from an interior peripheral surface of the housing 108. As such, the pilot seat member 130 is fixedly disposed within the housing 108.

The main spring 122 is disposed in the main chamber 120 such that a distal end of the main spring 122 rests against the interior surface of the piston 118, and a proximal end of the main spring 122 rests against the pilot seat member 130. The pilot seat member 130 is fixed, and thus the main spring 122 biases the piston 118 in the distal direction (to the right in FIG. 1). The distal direction could also be referred to as a closing direction. The main spring 122 is configured as a weak spring (e.g., a spring with a spring rate of 8 pound-force/inch causing a 2 pound-force biasing force on the piston 118). With such a low spring rate, a low pressure level differential across the piston 118, e.g., pressure level differential of 25 pounds per square inch (psi), can cause the piston 118 to move in the proximal direction against the biasing force of the main spring 122.

Further, the pilot seat member 130 includes one or more channels that are fluidly coupled to the first port 112. For example, the pilot seat member 130 can include a longitudinal channel 132 and can also include a plurality of radial channels such as radial channel 134 fluidly coupled to the longitudinal channel 132. The longitudinal channel 132 can operate as a damping orifice, such that as fluid flows from the first port 112, through the orifice 128 and the main chamber 120, pressure level of the fluid can drop as it flows through the longitudinal channel 132.

The pilot seat member 130 forms a pilot seat 136 at a proximal end of the longitudinal channel 132. The pilot stage 104 of the valve 100 includes a pilot poppet 138 configured to be seated at the pilot seat 136. In particular, with the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the pilot poppet 138 forms a cavity at its distal end that is configured to house a pilot check ball 139. The pilot check ball 139 is configured to be seated at the pilot seat 136 when the valve 100 is in the ventable mode of operation depicted in FIG. 1.

The pilot poppet 138 and the pilot check ball 139 can be collectively referred to as a pilot check member 140. The configuration of the pilot check member 140 that includes the pilot poppet 138 and the pilot check ball 139 as shown in FIG. 1 is an example for illustration. In other examples, a pilot check member can be configured as a poppet having a nose section that tapers gradually, such that rather than using a check ball to block fluid flow, an exterior surface of the nose section of the poppet is seated at the pilot seat 136 to block fluid flow.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pilot seat member 130 has a pilot sleeve portion 141 that extends in the proximal direction within the housing 108 and forms therein a pilot chamber 142 in which the pilot poppet 138 is disposed and is slidably accommodated therein. The pilot poppet 138 is thus guided by an interior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion 141 when the pilot poppet 138 moves axially in a longitudinal direction.

The pilot stage 104 further includes a setting spring 144 disposed in the pilot chamber 142, such that a distal end of the setting spring 144 interfaces with the pilot poppet 138 and biases the pilot poppet 138 toward the pilot seat 136. As such, the pilot poppet 138 operates as a distal spring cap for the setting spring 144.

A proximal end of the setting spring 144 rests against a washer 146 disposed in the pilot chamber 142 and fixed in place via a spring preload adjustment screw 148. The spring preload adjustment screw 148 has a threaded region on its exterior peripheral surface that threadedly engages with a corresponding threaded region on an interior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion 141 of the pilot seat member 130.

The valve 100 can further include a pin 149 that secures that spring preload adjustment screw 148 within the pilot sleeve portion 141. For example, the pin 149 can be disposed partially within a longitudinal groove formed in the exterior peripheral surface of the spring preload adjustment screw 148 and partially within a longitudinal groove formed in the interior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion 141. As such, the pin 149 couples and secures the spring preload adjustment screw 148 to the pilot sleeve portion 141. In an example, the pin 149 can be pushed into the longitudinal groove formed on the exterior peripheral of the spring preload adjustment screw 148, and as the pin 149 is forced in longitudinal groove, it deforms interior threads of the pilot sleeve portion 141. As such, once the spring preload adjustment screw 148 is screwed into the pilot seat member 130 to a particular longitudinal or axial position, and the pin 149 is inserted, positions of the spring preload adjustment screw 148 and the washer 146 are fixed, as the spring preload adjustment screw 148 can no longer rotate relative to the pilot seat member 130.

The biasing force of the setting spring 144 determines the pressure relief setting of the valve 100, where the pressure relief setting is the pressure level of fluid at the first port 112 at which the valve 100 can open to relieve fluid to the second port 114. Specifically, based on a spring rate of the setting spring 144 and the length of the setting spring 144, the setting spring 144 exerts a particular preload or biasing force on the pilot poppet 138 in the distal direction, thus causing the pilot check ball 139 to be seated at the pilot seat 136 of the pilot seat member 130. The pressure relief setting of the valve 100 can be determined by dividing the biasing force that the setting spring 144 applies to the pilot poppet 138 by an effective area of the pilot seat 136. The effective area of the pilot seat 136 can be estimated as a circular area having a diameter of the pilot seat 136. As an example for illustration, the pressure relief setting of the valve 100 can be about 5000 psi.

As described below, when the valve 100 is actuated and when pressure level of fluid at the first port 112 causes the fluid to apply a force on the pilot check ball 139, and thus on the pilot poppet 138, in the proximal direction that overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring 144 applied on the pilot poppet 138 in the distal direction, the pilot poppet 138 and the pilot check ball 139 move off the pilot seat 136. As the pilot check ball 139 is unseated, a pilot flow is allowed, thereby causing main flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114 and relieving the fluid as described below.

Adjusting longitudinal position of the spring preload adjustment screw 148 within the pilot seat member 130 (prior to installation of the pin 149) can adjust the biasing force of the setting spring 144. For example, if the spring preload adjustment screw 148 is rotated in a first direction (e.g., in a clockwise direction), the spring preload adjustment screw 148 may move axially in the distal direction (e.g., to the right in FIG. 1) pushing the washer 146 in the distal direction, thus compressing the setting spring 144 and increasing the preload or biasing force of the setting spring 144.

Conversely, rotating the spring preload adjustment screw 148 in a second direction (e.g., counter-clockwise) causes the spring preload adjustment screw 148 to move axially in the proximal direction, allowing the setting spring 144 to push the washer 146 in the proximal direction. The length of the setting spring 144 thus increases and the preload or biasing force of the setting spring 144 is reduced.

In examples, the spring preload adjustment screw 148 can be hollow such that a force sensor (e.g., a pin configured to have a force sensor coupled thereto) can be inserted from the proximal end of the valve 100 (prior to installation of the solenoid actuator 106) through the spring preload adjustment screw 148 to contact the washer 146 and measure the biasing force of the setting spring 144. With this configuration, if desired, the biasing force of the setting spring 144, and thus the pressure relief setting of the valve 100, can be adjusted by adjusting the longitudinal or axial position of the spring preload adjustment screw 148, prior to completing assembly of the valve 100 (i.e., prior to installation of the pin 149 and the solenoid actuator 106).

The solenoid actuator 106 includes a solenoid tube 150 configured as a cylindrical housing or body disposed within and received at a proximal end of the housing 108, such that the solenoid tube 150 is coaxial with the housing 108. For instance, the solenoid tube 150 can have a threaded region disposed on an exterior peripheral surface at a distal end thereof that threadedly engages with a corresponding threaded region formed on an interior peripheral surface of the housing 108 at a proximal end thereof. A solenoid coil 151 can be disposed about an exterior surface of the solenoid tube 150. The solenoid coil 151 is retained between a proximal end of the housing 108 and a coil nut 153 having internal threads that can engage a threaded region formed on the exterior peripheral surface of the solenoid tube 150 at its proximal end.

The solenoid tube 150 forms therein a solenoid actuator chamber configured to house a plunger or armature 152. The armature 152 is slidably accommodated within the solenoid tube 150.

The solenoid actuator 106 further includes a solenoid actuator sleeve 154 received at the proximal end of the housing 108 and also disposed partially within a distal end of the solenoid tube 150. The solenoid actuator sleeve 154 is slidably accommodated about the exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion 141 (i.e., the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 is positioned relative to the pilot sleeve portion 141 with sufficient clearance therebetween, enabling movement of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 relative to the pilot sleeve portion 141 in the proximal and distal directions, and thus the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 is not stationary, locked, or fixedly disposed in the valve 100, but rather, is allowed to move relative to the pilot sleeve portion 141).

Further, the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 includes a plurality of cross-holes, such as cross-holes 155A, 155B, disposed in a radial array about an exterior surface of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 and configured to communicate fluid therethrough.

Further, the armature 152 is mechanically coupled to, or linked with, the solenoid actuator sleeve 154. As such, if the armature 152 moves axially (e.g., in the proximal direction), the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 moves along with the armature 152 in the same direction.

The armature 152 can be coupled to the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 in several ways. FIG. 2 illustrates a three-dimensional partial perspective view showing the armature 152 coupled to the solenoid actuator sleeve 154, in accordance with an example implementation. As shown, the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 can have a male T-shaped member 200, and the armature 152 can have a corresponding female T-slot 202 configured to receive the male T-shaped member 200 of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154. With this configuration, the armature 152 and the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 are coupled to each other, such that if the armature 152 moves, the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 moves therewith.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the solenoid tube 150 further includes a pole piece 156 that can be separated from the armature 152 by an airgap 158. The pole piece 156 can be composed of material of high magnetic permeability.

The armature 152 includes therein a channel 160 and a chamber 162 formed within the armature 152 at a proximal end thereof. The chamber 162 is thus bounded by an interior surface of the pole piece 156 and an interior surface of the armature 152. As such, fluid received at the first port 112 can be communicated through unsealed spaces within the valve 100 to the channel 160, then to the chamber 162 and the airgap 158. With this configuration, the armature 152 can be pressure-balanced with fluid acting on both its proximal and distal ends.

Further, in examples, the chamber 162 can house a solenoid spring 164 that biases the armature 152 toward the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 and the pilot sleeve portion 141 such that there is no axial clearance or axial “play” between the armature 152, the solenoid actuator sleeve 154, and the pilot sleeve portion 141, thus maintaining contact therebetween, when the valve 100 is unactuated. When the valve 100 is actuated, as described below, the armature 152 can move in the proximal direction against the force of the solenoid spring 164, and thus the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 can move relative to (e.g., slide about the exterior peripheral surface of) the pilot sleeve portion 141, which is fixed. The solenoid spring 164 can be a weak spring that applies a low force on the armature 152. As an example for illustration, the solenoid spring 164 can have a spring rate of 30 pound-force/inch causing a force of about 2.5 pound-force on the armature 152.

The valve 100 is configured to operate in at least two modes of operation. The first mode of operation when the valve 100 is unactuated can be referred to as the ventable mode of operation and is depicted in FIG. 1. In this mode of operation, as shown in FIG. 1, the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 is in a first position, where the radial channel 134 of the pilot seat member 130 is overlapped, at least partially, with the cross-holes 155A, 155B of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154. In other words, the cross-holes 155A, 155B of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 are aligned with, and fluidly coupled to, the radial channel 134 of the pilot seat member 130. Thus, fluid received at the first port 112 can flow through the orifice 128, the main chamber 120, the longitudinal channel 132, and the radial channel 134 to the cross-holes 155A, 155B.

As shown in FIG. 1, an exterior diameter of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 is smaller than an interior diameter of the housing 108, and thus annular space 166 is formed therebetween. Also, the pilot seat member 130 includes a plurality of longitudinal channels or through-holes such as longitudinal through-hole 168 disposed in a radial array around the pilot seat member 130. Further, the longitudinal through-hole 168 is fluidly coupled to the pilot flow cross-hole 116 of the housing 108 via an annular undercut or annular groove 170 formed on the exterior peripheral surface of the main sleeve 110 at a proximal end thereof.

As such, in the ventable valve mode of operation, fluid received at the first port 112 flows to the second port 114 through the orifice 128, the main chamber 120, the longitudinal channel 132, the radial channel 134, the cross-holes 155A, 155B, the annular space 166, the longitudinal through-hole 168, the annular groove 170, and the pilot flow cross-hole 116. Such fluid flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114 through the pilot flow cross-hole 116 can be referred to as the pilot flow. As an example for illustration, the pilot flow can amount to about 0.15 gallons per minute (GPM).

With this configuration, in the ventable mode of operation, when the valve 100 is unactuated (i.e., when the solenoid coil 151 is un-energized), the valve 100 forms a first pilot flow path from the first port 112 through the orifice 128, the main chamber 120, the longitudinal channel 132, the radial channel 134, the cross-holes 155A, 155B, the annular space 166, the longitudinal through-hole 168, the annular groove 170, and the pilot flow cross-hole 116 to the second port 114. The first pilot flow path is normally-open, i.e., when the valve 100 is in an unactuated state, the first pilot flow path through the radial channel 134 is open.

The pilot flow through the orifice 128, which operates as a flow restriction, causes a pressure drop in the pressure level of the fluid. Thus, the pressure level of fluid in the main chamber 120 becomes lower than the pressure level of fluid received at the first port 112. As a result, fluid at the first port 112 applies a force on the distal end of the piston 118 in the proximal direction (e.g., to the left in FIG. 1) that is larger than the force applied by fluid in the main chamber 120 on the proximal end of the piston 118 in the distal direction (e.g., to the right in FIG. 1).

Due to such force imbalance on the piston 118, a net force is applied to the piston 118 in the proximal direction. When the net force overcomes the biasing force of the main spring 122 on the piston 118, the net force causes the piston 118 to move or be displaced axially in the proximal direction against the biasing force of the main spring 122. As mentioned above, the main spring 122 has a low spring rate, and thus a small pressure drop (e.g., when the pressure drop across the orifice 128 is about 25 psi) can cause the net force to overcome the biasing force of the main spring 122 on the piston 118. The piston 118 can move in the proximal direction until the proximal end of the piston 118 interfaces with or contacts the distal end of the pilot seat member 130, which operates as a stop for the piston 118.

In the position shown in FIG. 1, i.e., when the piston 118 has moved in the proximal direction, the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B are exposed, and thus fluid received at the first port 112 is allowed to flow through the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B directly to the second port 114. In other words, a main flow path is formed from the first port 112 directly through the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B to the second port 114. Such direct flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114 can be referred to as the main flow. As an example for illustration, the main flow rate can amount to up to 25 GPM based on the pressure setting of the valve 100 and the pressure drop between the first port 112 and the second port 114. The 25 GPM main flow rate is an example for illustration only. The valve 100 is scalable in size and different amounts of main flow rates can be achieved.

The second port 114 can be coupled to a low pressure reservoir or tank having fluid at low pressure level (e.g., atmospheric or low pressure level such as 10-70 psi). As such, fluid at the first port 112 is vented to the tank, and pressure level does not build up or increase at the first port 112.

As a result, the pressure level of fluid communicated through the longitudinal channel 132 and acting on the pilot check ball 139 is not sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the setting spring 144. Therefore, the pilot poppet 138 and the pilot check ball 139 remain seated at the pilot seat 136, precluding fluid flow to within the pilot sleeve portion 141.

The pilot sleeve portion 141 includes cross-holes, such as cross-holes 172A, 172B disposed in a radial array about the pilot sleeve portion 141. The cross-holes 172A, 172B are fluidly coupled to an annular groove 174 formed in an exterior peripheral surface of the pilot sleeve portion 141. In the ventable valve mode of operation depicted in FIG. 1, because the pilot check ball 139 remain seated at the pilot seat 136, fluid is not communicated to the cross-holes 172A, 172B or the annular groove 174.

The valve 100 is further configured to operate in a second mode of operation, which can be referred to as a pressure relief mode, when actuated. In other words, when the solenoid actuator 106 is activated, the valve 100 switches to a pressure relief mode of operation.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the valve 100 in a pressure relief mode of operation, in accordance with an example implementation. When an electric current is provided through the windings of the solenoid coil 151, a magnetic field is generated. The pole piece 156 directs the magnetic field through the airgap 158 toward the armature 152, which is movable and is attracted toward the pole piece 156. In other words, when an electric current is applied to the solenoid coil 151, the generated magnetic field forms a north and south pole in the pole piece 156 and the armature 152, and therefore the pole piece 156 and the armature 152 are attracted to each other. Because the pole piece 156 is fixed and the armature 152 is movable, the armature 152 can traverse the airgap 158 toward the pole piece 156, and the airgap 158 is reduced in size as depicted in FIG. 3. As such, a solenoid force is applied on the armature 152, where the solenoid force is a pulling force that tends to pull the armature 152 in the proximal direction against the force of the solenoid spring 164.

The solenoid force applied to the armature 152 is also applied to the solenoid actuator sleeve 154, which is coupled to the armature 152 as described with respect to FIG. 2. As the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 moves in the proximal direction (to the left in FIG. 3) to a second position shown in FIG. 3, the cross-holes 155A, 155B of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 move away from the radial channel 134 of the pilot seat member 130.

As such, the first pilot flow path described above is blocked and no pilot flow is allowed from the first port 112 to the second port 114 therethrough. In other words, as the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 moves in the proximal direction and the cross-holes 155A, 155B of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 are no longer fluidly coupled to, or overlapping with, the radial channel 134 as shown in FIG. 3, flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114 through the orifice 128, the main chamber 120, the longitudinal channel 132 and the radial channel 134 is blocked by the solenoid actuator sleeve 154. As a result, no pressure drop occurs across the orifice 128, and the piston 118 becomes pressure-balanced due to the pressure level of fluid at the first port 112 and within the main chamber 120 being substantially the same. The piston 118 then moves back in the distal direction by the biasing force of the main spring 122 to block the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B and preclude venting fluid from the first port 112 to the second port 114.

In the actuated position or state shown in FIG. 3, the valve 100 operates in a pressure relief mode and can be used to control or limit pressure level in a hydraulic system. Particularly, in the actuated state when the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 is in the second position, the cross-holes 155A, 155B become aligned with, or partially overlapping, the annular groove 174 and the cross-holes 172A, 172B, respectively. As such, the valve 100 is configured to open a second pilot flow path from the first port 112 to the second port 114 when pressure level of fluid at the first port 112, which is communicated to the pilot check ball 139 and pilot poppet 138 via the orifice 128, the main chamber 120, and the longitudinal channel 132, reaches a predetermined setting pressure determined by the setting spring 144. The predetermined setting pressure is determined by dividing a preload force that the setting spring 144 applies to the pilot poppet 138 by the effective area of the pilot seat 136 (e.g., the circular area having the diameter of the pilot seat 136, which can be slightly larger than the diameter of the longitudinal channel 132).

Once the pressure level in the main chamber 120 exceeds the predetermined setting pressure, fluid in the main chamber 120 pushes the pilot check ball 139 and the pilot poppet 138 in the proximal direction (to the left in FIG. 3) off the pilot seat 136. As an example for illustration, the pilot check ball 139 and the pilot poppet 138 can move a distance of about 0.05 inches off the pilot seat 136.

As a result of the pilot check ball 139 and the pilot poppet 138 being unseated, a second pilot flow path is formed and pilot flow is generated from the first port 112 through the orifice 128, the main chamber 120, the longitudinal channel 132, to within the pilot sleeve portion 141 (e.g., the pilot chamber 142) then through the cross-hole 172A, 172B, the annular groove 174, the cross-holes 155A, 155B, the annular space 166, the longitudinal through-hole 168, the annular groove 170, and the pilot flow cross-hole 116 to the second port 114. As such, when the valve 100 is actuated, the first pilot flow path that includes the radial channel 134 is blocked; however, when the pressure level exceeds the pressure relief setting of the valve 100, a second pilot flow path that includes the cross-holes 172A, 172B and the annular groove 174 is formed and allows pilot flow therethrough.

The pilot flow causes a pressure drop across the orifice 128, thereby causing the piston 118 to be subjected to a force imbalance and to move in the proximal direction against the main spring 122. Axial movement of the piston 118 past edges of the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B allows main flow from the first port 112 through the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B to the second port 114. As such, pressurized fluid at the first port 112 is relieved to the second port 114, thereby precluding pressure level at the first port 112 from increasing further.

The valve 100 can be referred to as a fixed setting pressure relief valve because once the preload of the setting spring 144 is set by the location of the spring preload adjustment screw 148 and the solenoid actuator 106 is installed, the preload of the setting spring 144 and its biasing force cannot be changed without disassembling the valve 100. In some applications, it may be desirable to have a manual adjustment actuator coupled to the valve so as to allow for manual modification of the preload of the setting spring 144, and thus modification of the pressure relief setting on the valve, while the valve is installed in the hydraulic system without disassembling the valve.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-section side view of a valve 400 having a manual adjustment actuator 402, in accordance with an example implementation. Identical components of both valves 100, 400 are designated with the same reference numbers. The valve 400 includes a solenoid tube 404 that differs from the solenoid tube 150 in that the solenoid tube 404 has a two-chamber configuration that allows it to receive the manual adjustment actuator 402.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the solenoid tube 404, in accordance with an example implementation. As depicted, the solenoid tube 404 has a cylindrical body 500 having therein a first chamber 502 within a distal side of the cylindrical body 500 and a second chamber 504 within a proximal side of the cylindrical body 500. The solenoid tube 404 includes a pole piece 503 formed as a protrusion from an interior peripheral surface of the cylindrical body 500. The pole piece 503 separates the first chamber 502 from the second chamber 504. In other words, the pole piece 503 divides a hollow interior of the cylindrical body 500 into the first chamber 502 and the second chamber 504. The pole piece 503 can be composed of material of high magnetic permeability.

Further, the pole piece 503 defines a channel 505 therethrough. In other words, an interior peripheral surface of the solenoid tube 404 at or through the pole piece 503 forms the channel 505, which fluidly couples the first chamber 502 to the second chamber 504. As such, pressurized fluid provided to the first chamber 502 is communicated through the channel 505 to the second chamber 504.

In examples, the channel 505 can be configured to receive a pin therethrough so as to transfer linear motion of one component in the second chamber 504 to another component in the first chamber 502 and vice versa. As such, the channel 505 can include chamfered circumferential surfaces at its ends (e.g., an end leading into the first chamber 502 and another end leading into the second chamber 504) to facilitate insertion of such a pin therethrough.

The solenoid tube 404 has a distal end 506 configured to be coupled to the housing 108 and a proximal end 508 configured to be coupled to and receive the manual adjustment actuator 402. Particularly, the solenoid tube 404 can have a first threaded region 510 disposed on an exterior peripheral surface of the cylindrical body 500 at the distal end 506 that is configured to threadedly engage with corresponding threads formed in the interior peripheral surface of the housing 108.

Also, the solenoid tube 404 can have a second threaded region 512 disposed on the exterior peripheral surface of the cylindrical body 500 at the proximal end 508 and configured to be threadedly engage with corresponding threads formed in the interior peripheral surface of the coil nut 153. Further, the solenoid tube 404 can have a third threaded region 514 disposed on an interior peripheral surface of the cylindrical body 500 at the proximal end 508 and configured to threadedly engage with corresponding threads formed in a component of the manual adjustment actuator 402 as described below. The solenoid tube 404 can also have one or more shoulders formed in the interior peripheral surface of the cylindrical body 500 that can mate with respective shoulders of the manual adjustment actuator 402 to enable alignment of the manual adjustment actuator 402 within the solenoid tube 404.

Referring back to FIG. 4, the solenoid tube 404 is configured to house an armature 406 in the first chamber 502. The armature 406 has a longitudinal channel 408 formed therein. The armature 406 also includes an annular internal groove or T-slot 410 configured to receive the male T-shaped member 200 of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154. The armature 406 further includes a protrusion 412 from its interior peripheral surface. The solenoid spring 164 is configured to rest on the protrusion 412 to bias the armature 406 in the distal direction.

As mentioned above, the solenoid tube 404 includes the pole piece 503 formed as a protrusion from the interior peripheral surface of the solenoid tube 404. The pole piece 503 is separated from the armature 406 by the airgap 158.

The manual adjustment actuator 402 is configured to allow for adjusting the pressure relief setting of the valve 400 without disassembling the valve 400. The manual adjustment actuator 402 includes a pin 414 disposed through the channel 505. The pin 414 is coupled to a spring cap 416 that interfaces with the setting spring 144 of the valve 400. As such, the valve 400 differs from the valve 100 in that, rather than the setting spring 144 interfacing with the spring preload adjustment screw 148, which is fixed once screwed to a particular position, the valve 400 includes the spring cap 416, which is movable via the pin 414 and can adjust the length of the setting spring 144.

The manual adjustment actuator 402 includes an adjustment piston 418 that interfaces with or contacts the pin 414, such that longitudinal or axial motion of the adjustment piston 418 causes the pin 414 and the spring cap 416 coupled thereto to move axially therewith. The adjustment piston 418 can be threadedly coupled to a nut 420 at threaded region 422. The nut 420 in turn is threadedly coupled to the solenoid tube 404 at the threaded region 514. As such, the adjustment piston 418 is coupled to the solenoid tube 404 via the nut 420. Further, the adjustment piston 418 is threadedly coupled at threaded region 424 to another nut 426.

The adjustment piston 418 is axially movable within the second chamber 504 of the solenoid tube 404. For instance, the adjustment piston 418 can include an adjustment screw 428, such that if the adjustment screw 428 is rotated in a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) the adjustment piston 418 moves in the distal direction (e.g., to the right in FIG. 4) by engaging more threads of the threaded regions 422, 424. If the adjustment screw 428 is rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., counter-clockwise) the adjustment piston 418 is allowed to move in the proximal direction (e.g., to the left in FIG. 4) by disengaging some threads of the threaded regions 422, 424.

While the distal end of the setting spring 144 is coupled to or rests against the pilot poppet 138, the proximal end of the setting spring 144 rests against the spring cap 416, which is coupled to the adjustment piston 418 via the pin 414. As such, axial motion of the adjustment piston 418 results in a change in the length of the setting spring 144. As a result, the biasing force that the setting spring 144 exerts on the pilot poppet 138, and thus the pressure relief setting of the valve 400, is changed. As such, the pressure relief setting of the valve 400 can be adjusted via the manual adjustment actuator 402 without disassembling the valve 400. As an example for illustration, the adjustment piston 418 can have a stroke of about 0.15 inches, which corresponds to a pressure relief setting range between 0 psi and 5000 psi.

The valve 400 is depicted in FIG. 4 in the ventable operation mode (similar to the valve 100 in FIG. 1). Similar to the valve 100, the valve 400 can be switched to the pressure relief mode by energizing the solenoid coil 151 so as to move the armature 406 and the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 in the proximal direction (e.g., to the left in FIG. 4).

As a result of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 moving in the proximal direction, the first pilot flow path through the radial channel 134 is blocked, whereas the annular groove 174 and the cross-holes 172A, 172B of the pilot sleeve portion 141 are aligned or partially overlapped with the cross-holes 155A, 155B of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154. The valve 400 is thus switched to the pressure relief mode and can operate similar to the valve 100 as described above with respect to FIG. 3.

Particularly, the second pilot flow path through the cross-holes 172A, 172B and the annular groove 174 is formed when the pressure relief setting is reached at the first port 112 and the pilot check ball 139 is unseated off the pilot seat 136. As a result of forming or opening the second pilot flow path, pilot flow is allowed therethrough, causing the piston 118 to move and relieving fluid from the first port 112 to the second port 114. Further, the pressure relief setting of the valve 400 can be adjusted via the manual adjustment actuator 402 to change the pressure level of the fluid at the first port 112 that can overcome the biasing force of the setting spring 144 and unseat the pilot check ball 139 and allow pilot flow to flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114.

The configurations and components shown in FIGS. 1-5 are examples for illustration, and different configurations and components could be used. For example, components can be integrated into a single component or a component can be divided into multiple components. As another example, different types of springs could be used, and other components could be replaced by components that perform a similar functionality. Further, although the solenoid actuator 106 is shown and described as a pull-type solenoid actuator, in other example implementations the valve 100, 400 can be configured such that a push-type solenoid actuator can be used, where the armature 152, 406 can be pushed in the distal direction when the solenoid coil 151 is energized.

The valves 100, 400 can be referred to as ventable pressure relief valves. Particularly, the valve 100 or 400 can be included in hydraulic systems so as to vent the first port 112 to the second port 114 when the valve is unactuated, and switch to a pressure relief mode to build pressure in the hydraulic system and protect the hydraulic system against undesirable increases in pressure level when the valve is actuated.

FIG. 6 illustrates a hydraulic system 600 using the valve 400, in accordance with an example implementation. The valve 400 is depicted symbolically in FIG. 6.

The hydraulic system 600 includes a source 602 of fluid. The source 602 of fluid can, for example, be a pump configured to provide fluid to the first port 112 of the valve 400. Such pump can be a fixed displacement pump, a variable displacement pump, or a load-sensing variable displacement pump, as examples. Additionally or alternatively, the source 602 of fluid can be an accumulator or another component (e.g., a valve) of the hydraulic system 600, such that the source 602 is fluidly coupled to the first port 112 of the valve 400.

As described above, when the valve 400 is unactuated, the first pilot flow path allows pilot flow therethrough and the piston 118 is shifted as shown in FIG. 4 to allow fluid at the first port 112 to be vented to the second port 114, which is coupled to a tank 604. Venting the first port 112 to the second port 114 is symbolized by fluid path 606 as depicted in FIG. 6.

The hydraulic system 600 can further include a controller 608. The controller 608 can include one or more processors or microprocessors and may include data storage (e.g., memory, transitory computer-readable medium, non-transitory computer-readable medium, etc.). The data storage may have stored thereon instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors of the controller 608, cause the controller 608 to perform operations described herein. Signal lines to and from the controller 608 are depicted as dashed lines in FIG. 6. The controller 608 can receive input or input information comprising sensor information via signals from various sensors or input devices in the hydraulic system 600, and in response provide electric signals to various components of the hydraulic system 600.

For instance, the controller 608 can receive a command or input information to switch the valve 400 from operating in a ventable operation mode to a pressure relief mode. The command or input information can be provided to the controller 608 to start building pressure in the hydraulic system 600. For example, the controller 608 can operate the valve 400 in the ventable operation mode to unload the source 602 until a speed of the engine or motor driving the source 602 reaches a particular value. Once the particular speed value is reached, the controller 608 can switch the valve 400 to the pressure relief mode. In another example, the controller 608 can be configured to operate the valve 400 in the ventable operation mode when the temperature of hydraulic oil exceeds a particular temperature threshold, and switch the valve 400 to the pressure relief mode when the temperature is below the particular temperature threshold. In other examples, the controller 608 can be configured to operate the valve 400 in the ventable operation mode to operate the hydraulic system 600 in a safety mode, and then switch the valve 400 to the pressure relief mode when the hydraulic system 600 is ready to be operational.

Thus, in response to the command or input information requesting or indicating the mode switch, the controller 608 can send a command signal to the solenoid coil 151 of the solenoid actuator 106 of the valve 400 to generate a solenoid force on the armature 406. When the solenoid force overcomes the biasing force of the solenoid spring 164, the armature 406 and the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 move in the proximal direction as described above. As a result, the first pilot flow path is blocked due to blocking fluid communication from the radial channel 134 to the cross-holes 155A, 155B, and the cross-holes 172A, 172B and the annular groove 174 are fluidly coupled to the cross-holes 155A, 155B, rendering the valve operating in the pressure relief mode.

In the pressure relief mode, pressure level of fluid provided by the source 602 is allowed to build up or increase, thus providing pressurized fluid to other portions, components, equipment, or actuators of the hydraulic system 600. Such other portions, components, equipment, or actuators are represented in FIG. 6 by block 609. For example, assuming that the block 609 represents an actuator (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder or motor), pressure level of fluid provided by the source 602 is allowed to increase, and thus pressurized fluid is provided to the actuator and enables the actuator to be operated (e.g., allows a piston of the actuator to extend or retract).

If the pressure level of fluid supplied by the source 602 exceeds the pressure setting of the valve 400, such that pressurized fluid at the first port 112 overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring 144, pressurized fluid unseats the pilot check ball 139 and the second pilot flow path is opened. Opening the second pilot flow path allows pilot flow, symbolized by arrow 610 in FIG. 6, from the first port 112 to the second port 114 through the cross-holes 172A, 172B, the annular groove 174, and the cross-holes 155A, 155B. The pilot flow allows the piston 118 to move, thereby allowing main flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114 via the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B and relieving fluid at the first port 112. The pressure relief mode is represented by symbol 612 in FIG. 6.

As depicted symbolically in FIG. 6 by arrow 614, the biasing force of the setting spring 144 can be adjusted (e.g., via the manual adjustment actuator 402 as described above). The valve 100 can be used in the hydraulic system 600 instead of the valve 400; however, the valve 100 can be depicted without the arrow 614.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method 700 for controlling a hydraulic system, in accordance with an example implementation. The method 700 can, for example, be performed by a controller such as the controller 608 to control the hydraulic system 600.

The method 700 may include one or more operations, or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 702-704. Although the blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may in some instances be performed in parallel, and/or in a different order than those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combined into fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or removed based upon the desired implementation.

In addition, for the method 700 and other processes and operations disclosed herein, the flowchart shows operation of one possible implementation of present examples. In this regard, each block may represent a module, a segment, or a portion of program code, which includes one or more instructions executable by a processor or a controller for implementing specific logical operations or steps in the process. The program code may be stored on any type of computer readable medium or memory, for example, such as a storage device including a disk or hard drive. The computer readable medium may include a non-transitory computer readable medium or memory, for example, such as computer-readable media that stores data for short periods of time like register memory, processor cache and Random Access Memory (RAM). The computer readable medium may also include non-transitory media or memory, such as secondary or persistent long term storage, like read only memory (ROM), optical or magnetic disks, compact-disc read only memory (CD-ROM), for example. The computer readable media may also be any other volatile or non-volatile storage systems. The computer readable medium may be considered a computer readable storage medium, a tangible storage device, or other article of manufacture, for example. In addition, for the method 700 and other processes and operations disclosed herein, one or more blocks in FIG. 7 may represent circuitry or digital logic that is arranged to perform the specific logical operations in the process.

At block 702, the method 700 includes receiving input information indicating a request to switch the valve 100, 400 from operating in a ventable mode to a pressure relief mode. The valve 100, 400 is normally operating in the ventable mode as described above with respect to FIGS. 1 and 4 when the valve 100, 400 is unactuated.

At block 704, the method 700 includes, based on the input information, sending a signal to the solenoid coil 151 to switch the valve 100, 400 to operate in the pressure relief mode. As described above, the controller 608 can provide a signal to the solenoid coil 151 to cause the armature 152, 406 to apply a force on the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 in the proximal direction, such that as the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 moves, the valve 100, 400 is switched to operating in the pressure relief mode as described above.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method 800 for operating a valve, in accordance with an example implementation. The method 800 shown in FIG. 8 presents an example of a method that could be used with the valves 100, 400, shown throughout the Figures, for example. The method 800 may include one or more operations, functions, or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 802-810. Although the blocks are illustrated in a sequential order, these blocks may also be performed in parallel, and/or in a different order than those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combined into fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or removed based upon the desired implementation. It should be understood that for this and other processes and methods disclosed herein, flowcharts show functionality and operation of one possible implementation of present examples. Alternative implementations are included within the scope of the examples of the present disclosure in which functions may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrent or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art.

At block 802, the method 800 includes operating the valve 100, 400 in a ventable mode where the first pilot flow path (e.g., through the radial channel 134 and the cross-holes 155A, 155B) is opened to allow pilot flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114, thereby causing the piston 118 to move (e.g., in the proximal direction) from a first position to a second position and allowing main flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114. The first position of the piston 118 is a position where the piston 118 can block the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B, and thus block main flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114. The second position is a position where the piston 118 has moved to expose the main flow cross-holes 115A, 115B, and thus allow main flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114 (as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 4).

At block 804, the method 800 includes receiving an electric signal (e.g., from the controller 608) energizing the solenoid coil 151 of a solenoid actuator (e.g., the solenoid actuator 106) of the valve 100, 400. The controller 608 can receive a request to switch the valve 100, 400 to a pressure relief mode. In response, the controller 608 sends the electric signal to the solenoid coil 151 to energize it.

At block 806, the method 800 includes, responsively, causing the armature 152, 406 of the solenoid actuator and the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 coupled to the armature 152, 406 to move, thereby: (i) blocking the first pilot flow path, (ii) causing the piston 118 to return to the first position and block main flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114, and (iii) aligning (or fluidly coupling) the cross-holes 155A, 155B of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154 with the cross-holes 172A, 172B of the pilot sleeve portion 141 of the valve 100, 400.

At block 808, the method 800 includes receiving pressurized fluid having a particular pressure level at the first port 112 of the valve 100, 400 such that the pressurized fluid overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring 144 of the valve 100, 400, thereby causing the pilot check member 140 (e.g., the pilot poppet 138 and the pilot check ball 139) to be unseated and opening the second pilot flow path via the cross-holes 172A, 172B of the pilot sleeve portion 141 of the valve 100, 400, which are aligned with the cross-holes 155A, 155B of the solenoid actuator sleeve 154.

At block 810, the method 800 includes, in response to pilot flow through the second pilot flow path, causing the piston 118 to move, thereby allowing main flow from the first port 112 to the second port 114.

The detailed description above describes various features and operations of the disclosed systems with reference to the accompanying figures. The illustrative implementations described herein are not meant to be limiting. Certain aspects of the disclosed systems can be arranged and combined in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated herein.

Further, unless context suggests otherwise, the features illustrated in each of the figures may be used in combination with one another. Thus, the figures should be generally viewed as component aspects of one or more overall implementations, with the understanding that not all illustrated features are necessary for each implementation.

Additionally, any enumeration of elements, blocks, or steps in this specification or the claims is for purposes of clarity. Thus, such enumeration should not be interpreted to require or imply that these elements, blocks, or steps adhere to a particular arrangement or are carried out in a particular order.

Further, devices or systems may be used or configured to perform functions presented in the figures. In some instances, components of the devices and/or systems may be configured to perform the functions such that the components are actually configured and structured (with hardware and/or software) to enable such performance. In other examples, components of the devices and/or systems may be arranged to be adapted to, capable of, or suited for performing the functions, such as when operated in a specific manner.

By the term “substantially” or “about” it is meant that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended to provide.

The arrangements described herein are for purposes of example only. As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other arrangements and other elements (e.g., machines, interfaces, operations, orders, and groupings of operations, etc.) can be used instead, and some elements may be omitted altogether according to the desired results. Further, many of the elements that are described are functional entities that may be implemented as discrete or distributed components or in conjunction with other components, in any suitable combination and location.

While various aspects and implementations have been disclosed herein, other aspects and implementations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and implementations disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only, and is not intended to be limiting. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A valve comprising: a pilot seat member comprising: (i) one or more channels fluidly coupled to a first port of the valve, (ii) a pilot seat, and (iii) a pilot chamber; a pilot check member disposed in the pilot chamber and subjected to a biasing force of a setting spring disposed in the pilot chamber to seat the pilot check member at the pilot seat; and a solenoid actuator sleeve axially movable relative to the pilot seat member, wherein: when the valve is unactuated, a first pilot flow path comprising the one or more channels of the pilot seat member is formed to fluidly couple the first port to a second port of the valve, thereby causing a piston to move and open a main flow path from the first port to the second port, and when the valve is actuated, the solenoid actuator sleeve moves axially, thereby: (i) blocking the first pilot flow path, and (ii) causing the piston to block the main flow path from the first port to the second port, wherein when pressure level of fluid at the first port overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring on the pilot check member, the pilot check member is unseated and a second pilot flow path is formed from the first port to the second port, thereby causing the piston to move axially and open the main flow path from the first port to the second port.
 2. The valve of claim 1, further comprising: a housing having a longitudinal cylindrical cavity therein and having a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the housing; and a main sleeve disposed, at least partially, in the longitudinal cylindrical cavity of the housing, wherein the main sleeve includes the first port at a distal end of the main sleeve and includes one or more cross-holes disposed on an exterior peripheral surface of the main sleeve, wherein the cross-hole of the housing and the one or more cross-holes of the main sleeve form the second port.
 3. The valve of claim 2, wherein the piston is disposed within the main sleeve and configured to be axially movable therein, wherein the piston defines a main chamber therein, and wherein the main chamber is fluidly coupled to the first port and the one or more channels of the pilot seat member.
 4. The valve of claim 3, wherein the one or more channels of the pilot seat member comprise: (i) a longitudinal channel fluidly coupled to the main chamber, wherein the pilot seat is formed at a proximal end of the longitudinal channel, and (ii) a radial channel fluidly coupled to the longitudinal channel, and wherein the first pilot flow path comprises the longitudinal channel, the radial channel, and a cross-hole formed in the solenoid actuator sleeve.
 5. The valve of claim 4, wherein the second pilot flow path comprises: the longitudinal channel, a cross-hole formed in the pilot seat member, and the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve, which is aligned with the cross-hole of the pilot seat member when the valve is actuated.
 6. The valve of claim 5, wherein the first pilot flow path and the second pilot flow path further comprise: (i) an annular space formed between an exterior peripheral surface of the solenoid actuator sleeve and an interior peripheral surface of the housing, (ii) a longitudinal through-hole formed in the pilot seat member, and (iii) the cross-hole of the housing.
 7. The valve of claim 1, further comprising: a solenoid actuator comprising a solenoid coil, a pole piece, and an armature that is mechanically coupled to the solenoid actuator sleeve, such that when the solenoid coil is energized, the armature and the solenoid actuator sleeve coupled thereto are pulled axially toward the pole piece, thereby aligning a cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve with a cross-hole of the pilot seat member to open the second pilot flow path.
 8. The valve of claim 7, wherein the armature comprises a T-slot formed as an annular internal groove, wherein the solenoid actuator sleeve comprises a male T-shaped member, and wherein the T-slot of the armature is configured to receive the male T-shaped member of the solenoid actuator sleeve to mechanically couple the armature to the solenoid actuator sleeve.
 9. The valve of claim 7, wherein the solenoid actuator further comprises a solenoid tube, and wherein the solenoid tube comprises: (i) a cylindrical body, (ii) a first chamber defined within the cylindrical body and configured to receive the armature of the solenoid actuator therein, and (iii) a second chamber defined within the cylindrical body, wherein the pole piece is formed as a protrusion from an interior peripheral surface of the cylindrical body, wherein the pole piece is disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber, and wherein the pole piece defines a channel therethrough, such that the channel fluidly couples the first chamber to the second chamber.
 10. The valve of claim 9, further comprising: a manual adjustment actuator having: (i) an adjustment piston disposed, at least partially, in the second chamber of the solenoid tube, (ii) a pin disposed through the channel of the pole piece and through the armature, wherein a proximal end of the pin contacts the adjustment piston and a distal end of the pin is coupled to a spring cap against which a proximal end of the setting spring rests, such that axial motion of the adjustment piston causes the pin and the spring cap coupled thereto to move axially, thereby adjusting the biasing force of the setting spring.
 11. A hydraulic system comprising: a source of fluid; a reservoir; and a ventable pressure relief valve having a first port fluidly coupled to the source of fluid, and a second port fluidly coupled to the reservoir, wherein the ventable pressure relief valve comprises: a pilot seat member comprising: (i) one or more channels fluidly coupled to the first port, (ii) a pilot seat, and (iii) a pilot chamber, a pilot check member disposed in the pilot chamber and subjected to a biasing force of a setting spring disposed in the pilot chamber to seat the pilot check member at the pilot seat, and a solenoid actuator sleeve axially movable relative to the pilot seat member, wherein the solenoid actuator sleeve includes, wherein: when the ventable pressure relief valve is unactuated, the ventable pressure relief valve operates in a ventable mode of operation, wherein a first pilot flow path comprising the one or more channels of the pilot seat member is formed to fluidly couple the first port to the second port, thereby causing a piston to move and open a main flow path from the first port to the second port, and when the ventable pressure relief valve is actuated, the ventable pressure relief valve operates in a pressure relief mode of operation, wherein the solenoid actuator sleeve moves axially, thereby: (i) blocking the first pilot flow path, and (ii) causing the piston to block the main flow path from the first port to the second port, wherein when pressure level of fluid at the first port overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring on the pilot check member, the pilot check member is unseated and a second pilot flow path is formed from the first port to the second port, thereby causing the piston to move axially and open the main flow path from the first port to the second port.
 12. The hydraulic system of claim 11, wherein the ventable pressure relief valve further comprises: a housing having a longitudinal cylindrical cavity therein and having a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the housing; and a main sleeve disposed, at least partially, in the longitudinal cylindrical cavity of the housing, wherein the main sleeve includes the first port at a distal end of the main sleeve and includes one or more cross-holes disposed on an exterior peripheral surface of the main sleeve, wherein the cross-hole of the housing and the one or more cross-holes of the main sleeve form the second port, wherein the piston is disposed within the main sleeve and configured to be axially movable therein, wherein the piston defines a main chamber therein, and wherein the main chamber is fluidly coupled to the first port and the one or more channels of the pilot seat member.
 13. The hydraulic system of claim 12, wherein the one or more channels of the pilot seat member comprise: (i) a longitudinal channel fluidly coupled to the main chamber, wherein the pilot seat is formed at a proximal end of the longitudinal channel, and (ii) a radial channel fluidly coupled to the longitudinal channel, and wherein the first pilot flow path comprises the longitudinal channel, the radial channel, and a cross-hole formed in the solenoid actuator sleeve, wherein the second pilot flow path comprises: the longitudinal channel, a cross-hole formed in pilot seat member, and the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve, which is aligned with the cross-hole of the pilot seat member when the ventable pressure relief valve is actuated.
 14. The hydraulic system of claim 13, wherein the first pilot flow path and the second pilot flow path further comprise: (i) an annular space formed between an exterior peripheral surface of the solenoid actuator sleeve and an interior peripheral surface of the housing, (ii) a longitudinal through-hole formed in the pilot seat member, and (iii) the cross-hole of the housing.
 15. The hydraulic system of claim 11, further comprising: a solenoid actuator comprising a solenoid coil, a pole piece, and an armature that is mechanically coupled to the solenoid actuator sleeve, such that when the solenoid coil is energized, the armature and the solenoid actuator sleeve coupled thereto are pulled axially toward the pole piece, thereby aligning a cross-hole formed in the solenoid actuator sleeve with a cross-hole formed in the pilot seat member to open the second pilot flow path.
 16. The hydraulic system of claim 15, wherein the solenoid actuator further comprises a solenoid tube, and wherein the solenoid tube comprises: (i) a cylindrical body, (ii) a first chamber defined within the cylindrical body and configured to receive the armature of the solenoid actuator therein, and (iii) a second chamber defined within the cylindrical body, wherein the pole piece is formed as a protrusion from an interior peripheral surface of the cylindrical body, wherein the pole piece is disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber, and wherein the pole piece defines a channel therethrough, such that the channel fluidly couples the first chamber to the second chamber.
 17. The hydraulic system of claim 16, further comprising: a manual adjustment actuator having: (i) an adjustment piston disposed, at least partially, in the second chamber of the solenoid tube, (ii) a pin disposed through the channel of the pole piece and through the armature, wherein a proximal end of the pin contacts the adjustment piston and a distal end of the pin is coupled to a spring cap against which a proximal end of the setting spring rests, such that axial motion of the adjustment piston causes the pin and the spring cap coupled thereto to move axially, thereby adjusting the biasing force of the setting spring.
 18. A valve comprising: a housing having a longitudinal cylindrical cavity therein and having a cross-hole disposed in an exterior peripheral surface of the housing; a main sleeve disposed, at least partially, in the longitudinal cylindrical cavity of the housing, wherein the main sleeve includes a first port at a distal end of the main sleeve and includes one or more cross-holes disposed on an exterior peripheral surface of the main sleeve, wherein the cross-hole of the housing and the one or more cross-holes of the main sleeve form a second port; a piston disposed within the main sleeve and configured to be axially movable therein, wherein the piston defines a main chamber therein, and wherein the main chamber is fluidly coupled to the first port; a pilot seat member comprising: (i) one or more channels fluidly coupled to the main chamber, (ii) a pilot seat, and (iii) a pilot chamber; a pilot check member disposed in the pilot chamber and subjected to a biasing force of a setting spring disposed in the pilot chamber to seat the pilot check member at the pilot seat; and a solenoid actuator sleeve axially movable relative to the pilot seat member, wherein when the valve is unactuated, the solenoid actuator sleeve is in a first position in which a first pilot flow path comprising the one or more channels of the pilot seat member is formed to fluidly couple the first port to the second port, and wherein when the valve is actuated, the solenoid actuator sleeve moves axially to a second position in which the first pilot flow path is blocked, and a second pilot flow path is formed from the first port to the second port when pressure level of fluid at the first port overcomes the biasing force of the setting spring on the pilot check member.
 19. The valve of claim 18, wherein the one or more channels of the pilot seat member comprise: (i) a longitudinal channel fluidly coupled to the main chamber, wherein the pilot seat is formed at a proximal end of the longitudinal channel, and (ii) a radial channel fluidly coupled to the longitudinal channel, and when the solenoid actuator sleeve is in the first position, a cross-hole formed in the solenoid actuator sleeve is aligned with the radial channel, and the first pilot flow path comprises the longitudinal channel, the radial channel, and the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve.
 20. The valve of claim 19, wherein when the solenoid actuator sleeve is in the second position, the radial channel is blocked, and wherein the second pilot flow path comprises: the longitudinal channel, a cross-hole formed in the pilot seat member, and the cross-hole of the solenoid actuator sleeve, which is aligned with the cross-hole of the pilot seat member when the solenoid actuator sleeve is in the second position. 